- Streptoprocne semicollaris
Identification
With 22cm a large Swift.
- Black-brown plumage
- Diagnostic white nape patch
- Long, broad wings
- Heavy body
- Square tail, looking rounded when spread
Similar Species
White-collared Swift and Biscutate Swift.
Distribution
Endemic to W Mexico, recorded in Belize.
Locally common and not globally threatened.
Taxonomy
This is a monotypic species[1].
Has been placed as only species in genus Semicollum or together with Great Dusky Swift in genus Aerornis.
Habitat
Found in the mountains of West Mexico around gorges, cliffs, high crags, up to 3600m. Usually over pine-oak forest, tropical deciduous forest and scrub. Sometimes seen over coastal slopes.
Behaviour
Resident with only little movement.
Diet
Feeds on insects, taken in flight.
Breeding
Breeds in May in small colonies in caves. Builds a nest with plant material and mud, sometimes no nest at all. Lays two eggs.
References
- Clements, JF. 2009. The Clements Checklist of Birds of the World. 6th ed., with updates to December 2009. Ithaca: Cornell Univ. Press. ISBN 978-0801445019.
Recommended Citation
- BirdForum Opus contributors. (2025) White-naped Swift. In: BirdForum, the forum for wild birds and birding. Retrieved 23 March 2025 from https://www.birdforum.net/opus/White-naped_Swift
